English · Science & Technology
ecosystem
/ˈiː.koʊˌsɪs.təm/
[/ˈiː.koʊˌsɪs.təm/]
interconnected system
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A complex network of interconnected parts, originally biological but now often used for technology or business.
Example
Apple built a tightly integrated ecosystem of devices, software, and online services.
Apple built a tightly integrated ecosystem of devices, software, and online services.
Etymology
Coined in 1935 by ecologist Arthur Tansley; the business and tech sense emerged in recent decades.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in biology, and increasingly in tech and business strategy.